July 1, 2025, isn’t just another date on the calendar—it’s bringing a bunch of new rules that’ll pinch your pocket. From pricier train tickets to extra charges on ATM withdrawals, here’s everything you need to know so you’re not caught off guard.
1. Tatkal Ticket Bookings Just Got Trickier
Planning a last-minute trip? The Railways has new rules for Tatkal bookings starting July 1:
- Aadhaar authentication is now a must—no Aadhaar, no Tatkal ticket via IRCTC’s app or website.
- From July 15, you’ll need an Aadhaar-based OTP to confirm your booking.
- Agents booking Tatkal tickets will also face stricter checks.
Why? To cut down on fraud and bots hogging tickets. Good for fairness, annoying if you’re in a hurry.
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2. Train Fares Are Going Up (But Only for Long Trips)
Bad news if you’re traveling far:
- Non-AC tickets will cost 1 paisa more per km.
- AC tickets get a 2 paisa/km hike.
- But if your trip is under 500 km, no change—your fare stays the same.
Who’s affected? Mostly long-distance travelers. A Delhi-Mumbai trip (1,400 km) in 3AC will now cost ~₹28 more. Not huge, but adds up over time.
3. No Aadhaar? No PAN Card
Getting a new PAN card? The tax department’s new rule says:
- Aadhaar is mandatory from July 1.
- Existing PAN holders must link Aadhaar by December 31, 2025, or face penalties.
- Getting caught with multiple PANs? That’s a ₹10,000 fine.
Goal? Crack down on fake PAN cards. Annoying paperwork now, fewer scams later.
4. ICICI ATM Withdrawals Aren’t Free Anymore
ICICI Bank is cutting back on free ATM transactions:
- Metro cities: Only 3 free withdrawals/month (after that, ₹23 per transaction).
- Non-metro cities: 5 free withdrawals/month, then same ₹23 charge.
Pro tip: Use your bank’s ATMs or digital payments to dodge fees.
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5. HDFC Credit Card Users: Say Hello to Extra Charges
Paying bills via Paytm/PhonePe with your HDFC credit card? Starting July:
- 1% fee on third-party app transactions.
- Utility bills (electricity, water, mobile) will also cost extra.
Workaround? Pay directly through HDFC’s app/website to avoid charges.
6. LPG Cylinder Prices Might Jump (Again)
LPG rates get revised monthly, and after months of ups and downs, another price tweak is likely in July. If you use a gas cylinder, keep an eye out—your kitchen budget might need adjusting.
Bottom Line
July’s changes are a mixed bag—some are about cracking down on fraud (Aadhaar for PAN/Tatkal), others just mean higher costs (train fares, ATM fees). Stay updated, plan ahead, and maybe rethink that extra ATM trip.
